FAST FACTS

The golden-capped conure has a green body with a red and gold cap and a red breast.

SIZE:

Approximately 30 cm (12 in) in length

WEIGHT:

Approximately 150 g (5.3 oz.)

DIET:

Includes seeds, nuts, fruits

INCUBATION:

Approximately 30 days

CLUTCH SIZE

3-5 eggs

SEXUAL MATURITY:

No data

LIFE SPAN:

Approximately 30-35 years

RANGE:

Found in central-eastern Brazil

HABITAT:

Inhabits semi-deciduous forest and adjacent open areas

POPULATION:

GLOBAL

Estimated at 2,500-10,000

STATUS:

IUCN

Not listed

CITES

Appendix II

USFWS

Vulnerable

FUN FACTS

1.

Due to the small quantity of conures in the wild, little is known about this bird.

2.

Though they are not known as a truly social bird, pairs and small groups may be seen feeding in the treetops together.

3.

Conures have a tendency to spend long periods of time in their nest, even when not breeding.

4.

They are playful birds and are said to be clown-like.

5.

Because of their sharp screeching calls, they are often known as "little macaws".

ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION

The U.S. Wild Bird Act forbids the commercial import of any bird listed by CITES which includes most parrots - endangered or threatened.

Though these birds are not endangered, these birds are often sought for pet trade.

Loss of habitat is the primary threat. This species cannot exist without forest habitat.

Prior to the 1970s, this species was rarely seen in captivity, but because of deforestation, the birds had less and less area to hide. Consequently illegal trade and trapping of this bird became popular.